Forget the water cooler, it’s all about the candy bowl at Cotton & Company. Lets face it; we are with one another as much, if not more, than our own family. So it’s only natural that we find some bonding time. And what better way than with candy? Sure this seems simple, but the best part about candy is, unlike with people, everybody likes it. Candy puts people in a happy mood. A happy worker is more productive. More pleasant. And, well, just plain happier.

I recently thought about this and did a little kitchen sink research. On days when the candy bowl is overflowing, there is more community in the office. People who may typically stay to their area of the office make guest appearances. On days when the bottom of the candy bowl can be seen? You guessed it. Less interaction. Fewer impromptu meetings and conversations. Some may say this is a good thing. My employees are working. I say blasphemy. Some of the greatest ideas and campaigns have come from impromptu meetings. So the next time you are out and about shopping, how about making a turn down aisle six for some candy to help the kids back at the office?